TNF Blockers - Does Their Use Predict Work Disability?

TNF blockers are an important treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Enbrel, the first TNF blocker that was marketed in 1998, arrived on the scene with great promise -- the potential for decreasing joint damage and disability from rheumatoid arthritis. As subsequent TNF blockers were developed, namely Remicade and Humira, patients were anxious to know if the drugs were working -- was joint damage really less and was disability really being held off?

A study published in the August 15, 2008 issue of Arthritis Care & Research assessed 953 patients with rheumatologist-diagnosed rheumatoid arthritis. The study participants provided information on medication usage and employment every 6 months for 18 months. The mean age of study participants was 51 years and 82% were female. About 48% of study participants used a TNF blocker when the study began. Generally, researchers concluded that the use of TNF blockers did not protect against work disability -- except there seemed to be some protective effect in users who had rheumatoid arthritis for less than 11 years. Age and disease factors were considered the more prominent predictors of work disability.

Related Resources:

• Do Biologics Prevent Joint Damage and Deformity?
• Can TNF Blockers Be Stopped When Remission Is Achieved?
• Arthritis Without Pain - The Miracle of TNF Blockers (Book Review)
• Test Your Knowledge - TNF Blockers

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